For one, brightness is always set way to high. First thing I do with a new monitor is pull the brightness down to around 40%. Afterwards I use a colorimeter to calibrate the colors more accurately. (a colorimeter can cost $100)

Maybe you just need to spend more time with it. It may feel good after a while. I personally like playing with the monitor less than 2' away, even with at 27" screen. It just feels more immersive, but if you are used to 22", than you'll have to get used to it.